EstimatorExpired

Got a sharp eye for damage and a knack for getting the numbers right the first time? Donford Approved Repair Centre is looking for an experienced Estimator to join our busy body shop team. You'll be the vital link between our customers, insurers, and workshop floor — turning damage assessments into accurate, Audatex-driven estimates that keep repairs moving and our customers back on the road fast. If you know your way around a panel beating environment, can hold your own negotiating with insurance assessors, and take pride in getting every detail right under pressure, we want to hear from you. Join a well-established, reputable group where your expertise directly shapes the customer experience. Apply now and put your estimating skills to work in a fast-paced, professional environment that values accuracy, integrity, and teamwork.

Purpose of the Role:

The Estimator is responsible for accurately assessing accident-damaged vehicles and compiling detailed, compliant repair estimates using Audatex, ensuring efficient claims processing, insurer approval, and profitable, timeous workshop turnaround. The role acts as the critical link between the customer, the insurer, and the workshop production team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough visual and hands-on assessments of damaged vehicles to identify all repair and replacement requirements.
• Compile detailed, accurate repair estimates using Audatex, including labour, paint, and parts costings.
• Liaise with insurance assessors to motivate and negotiate estimates, and manage supplementary/additional damage requests.
• Source parts pricing (OEM, aftermarket, and alternative) and select appropriate suppliers in line with insurer and company requirements.
• Advise customers on the repair process, timelines, and excess payments where required.
• Ensure all estimates comply with insurer Service Level Agreements (SLAs), MIBCO labour rates, and company policy.
• Hand over approved estimates to the workshop/production team with clear repair specifications.
• Monitor jobs for scope changes during repair and process supplementary estimates promptly.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records on Audatex and internal systems for audit and reporting purposes.
• Keep abreast of current vehicle technology, repair methods, and insurer requirements.
• Assist with quality control checks and final vehicle handover where required.
• Maintain professional, courteous communication with customers, insurers, and colleagues at all times.

Essential Qualificatiods and Experience:

• Minimum 2–3 years' experience as an Estimator in a panel beating / auto body repair environment.
• Proficiency in Audatex estimating system (essential).
• Sound knowledge of vehicle construction, panel beating, and spray painting repair processes.
• Working knowledge of insurer SLAs and claims processes.
• Grade 12 / Matric (essential); a relevant automotive, motor mechanic, or panel beating qualification/trade certificate is advantageous.
• Valid driver's licence (essential).
• Computer literacy (MS Office and estimating software).

Essential Competencies/Traits/Behaviours:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy under time pressure.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, particularly with insurers and customers.
• Ability to read and interpret vehicle damage accurately.
• Good organisational and time-management skills in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.
• Customer service orientation and professionalism.
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced, target-driven workshop.
• Team player with the ability to liaise effectively across departments (workshop, parts, admin).
• Honesty and integrity, given the financial and compliance sensitivity of estimating.